Mahameha (Polygonatum cirrhifolium (Wall.) Royle) – An Endangered plant of Asthavarga Mentioned in Samhitas

Abstract

The science of life is Ayurveda. It is a component of India's rich and illustrious past and is linked to the noble, good, and great tradition of the country's ancient Rishis (sages). The most flamboyant group of flowering plants in nature, the Astavarga are located in the Himalayan region. Astavarga, as its name suggests, is home to eight medicinal plants: Kakoli, Kshirakakoli, Meda, Mahameda, Jeevak, Risbhaka, Riddhi, and Vriddhi. These plants are members of the Zingiberaceae, Orchidaceae, and Liliaceae families. These medicinal plants are significant components of preparations including Chyawanprasha rasayan, Ashtavarga churna, Brimhanigutika, and Vajikaraghrita, among others. They are categorized as Rasayana (Rejuvenation) in Ayurveda. Astavarga plants are mostly utilized as an all-around tonic and to cure sexual dysfunction, physical weakness, body discomfort, and immune system stimulation. There haven't been many studies on the biochemical, phytochemical, and biological activities of the plants in this group. Asthvarga's Mahameha (Polygonatum cirrhifolium (Wall.) Royle) is a significant plant. The author of this research paper aims to provide the valuable plant's botanical and therapeutic worth.